Those concerns have eased considerably ahead of Friday's clash at Wembley, however. Southgate told a press conference: "Everyone trained today, which is pleasing. There were one or two questions marks earlier in the week but we have managed everyone.

"I have difficult decisions to make, because we have strength in depth and competition for places among good players. It is a great position for me to be in."

While the England boss didn't let much slip on his selection plans, skipper Wayne Rooney is to return to the starting XI after being dropped to the bench in the last qualifier against Slovakia amid his poor form for Manchester United.

Southgate spoke to the press on Thursday.Getty

But a much-improved performance in the 3-1 win over Swansea City on Sunday sees the 31-year-old return.

"He is in a better place than he was for the last get-together in terms of his sharpness and his confidence," Southgate added. "He is a really experienced player for a game like this and there was no hesitation from me to play him.

"He is playing well, as he has shown in the last couple of games for Manchester United. When he is in rhythm it helps him and he is confident. It is important to have his qualities in a game like this. We are team with a lot of energy and potential but you also need experienced players around you."